Phrases to Show Contrast in English (with Meanings & Examples)
When you write an essay, article, review, or report in English, showing contrast clearly is essential. At B2–C1 level, examiners expect you to go beyond basic connectors like but or however and use a wider range of expressions to balance ideas, acknowledge opposing views, and introduce unexpected information. In this lesson, you will learn useful phrases to show contrast, complete with clear meanings and natural examples. These expressions are especially valuable for Cambridge exams, formal writing, and polished spoken English.
As opposed to
Meaning: in contrast with; rather than. It is used to highlight a clear difference between two things.
- It’s 25 degrees today, as opposed to 10 degrees yesterday.
- Many students prefer online classes as opposed to traditional lessons.
At the same time
Meaning: used to introduce an additional fact that contrasts or balances what has just been said.
- You need to be a firm parent, but at the same time, understanding and supportive.
- The job is demanding. At the same time, it is extremely rewarding.
But then (again)
Meaning: used when you reconsider something or introduce a contrasting thought. Tone: informal to neutral; common in spoken English and informal writing.
- He’s careless with money, but then again, he’s still very young.
- The plan sounds risky, but then again, it could bring great results.
Despite all this
Meaning: used to say that something happens or is true even though many opposing factors exist.
- Despite all this, very little attention was given to the competition winner.
- The project faced many setbacks. Despite all this, it was completed on time.
Even though it may seem
Meaning: used to introduce a contrast between appearance and reality.
- It would be wise to service the car, even though it may seem to be working well.
- Even though it may seem unnecessary, the rules must be followed.
In reality
Meaning: used to correct a false impression or contrast belief with fact.
- The company appears successful, but in reality, it is struggling financially.
- He seems confident, but in reality, he is quite insecure.
In the long run
Meaning: eventually; after a long period of time. Often used to contrast short-term effects with long-term consequences.
- This solution may be cheap now, but in the long run, it will cost more.
- Skipping revision saves time today, but in the long run, it harms your progress.
On the one hand … on the other hand …
Meaning: used to present two opposing ideas in a balanced way. Very common in essays and formal writing.
- On the one hand, living abroad offers new opportunities. On the other hand, it can be lonely.
- On the one hand, the salary is attractive. On the other hand, the workload is heavy.
While it may be true (that)
Meaning: used to acknowledge a point before introducing a contrasting opinion. A classic structure for high-level writing.
- While it may be true that the policy helped businesses, it also increased inequality.
- While it may be true that exams are stressful, they remain an effective assessment tool.
As long as
Meaning: provided that; on condition that. Although mainly a conditional phrase, it often creates contrast between a requirement and a result.
- Martha won’t find out about the surprise as long as you don’t tell her.
- You will continue to grow as long as you remain curious and open-minded.
When writing at B2–C1 level, variety matters. Try not to rely on just one or two contrast phrases. Mixing structures like while it may be true, on the one hand … on the other hand, and despite all this will make your writing sound more natural, confident, and advanced.
If you practise using these expressions in short paragraphs or exam-style essays, you will quickly notice the difference in clarity and sophistication.
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